Disability Employment Australia welcomes the Morrison Government’s announcement that it will “provide a $90.7 million boost to support Australians with disability who are at risk amid the coronavirus outbreak to help with employment and other support services.”
Up to $61 million of supports in today’s announcement will be available to Disability Employment Service providers, as an advance payment of six weeks on service fees to ensure participants can continue to access support during this time.
Disability Employment Australia believes the package of support is a positive step in the right direction and congratulates Minister Ruston on this clear sighted decision.
Disability Employment Australia’s CEO, Rick Kane says, “This announcement is the right message from the Morrison Government. Disability Employment Services are essential services for people with disability, looking to find a job and keep that job. A six week advance payment is a welcome short-term financial relief. However, more is required to ensure that DES is there as a continuity of support and assistance for over 250,000 people with disability, who are currently registered with DES providers.”
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston and the Government are “absolutely committed to working with individuals, service providers, peak bodies and other stakeholders as we respond to the evolving challenges presented by the coronavirus.”
Disability Employment Australia agrees with the Minister. We look forward to continuing to work together.
Rick Kane says, “The Morrison Government expects economic and social impacts from coronavirus will be here for at least six months. We will work with Minster Ruston and the Department to ensure the sector’s sustainability and therefore support for DES participants, is available for the next six to nine months.”
